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Assessor

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1. How often does the valuation of properties change?

Every year the Assessors subject the arms-length sales that occurred in the prior calendar year to a statistical examination based on market area, style of house, age of house, effective area, size of lot, and sale price to see what changes the market has shown. The tables used in the Computer-Assisted Mass Appraisal (CAMA) system are adjusted so that the median assessment of the sales sample is within 10% of 100% of market value and the dispersion of the assessments to sales ratios in the sample are within State guidelines. These new factors are then applied to all properties for the new fiscal year.

Every third year the Department of Revenue (DOR) requires each city or town to conduct a revaluation. This is a year-long process during which the DOR examines every phase of the assessing operation before certifying the values. During the two years in between revaluations, the Assessors may change the values if sales activity so indicates. These yearly updates are called Interim Year Adjustments. There was an adjustment to the values for FY09.

2. How will the new valuation affect my tax bill? If my assessment went down, how can my tax bill go up?

Individual assessments may rise or fall depending on characteristics of the property. The purpose of mass appraisal is to value all property by the same standards at the same time to create an equitable distribution of the tax levy. If the same amount of money is to be raised for the current year after a valuation update from the previous year, and each assessment has doubled, the tax rate would be cut in half. And vice versa, if each assessment decreased by 20%, and the same amount of money was to be raised, the tax rate would increase by 20%. Increases or decreases in assessed values do not cause a tax increase or decrease.

3. What's the difference between an abatement and an exemption?

An exemption is a discharge from the obligation to pay all or part of a real estate tax based on certain age, income, military, or disability status as set forth by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. An abatement happens as a result of an adjustment that lowers a property valuation after the actual (not preliminary) tax bill has been issued. Exemptions are available for seniors, low-income seniors, surviving spouse or surviving minor child, veterans with disabilities, and blind persons.

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Building Department

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1. What do I need a building permit for?

The Massachusetts State building Code states that “it shall be unlawful to construct, reconstruct, alter, repair, remove, or demolish a structure; or to change the use or occupancy of a building or structure; or to install or alter any equipment for which provision is made or the installation of which is regulated be the code” without first obtaining a building permit.

This includes, but is not limited to new structures, additions, dormers, chimneys, woodstoves, decks, roofing, siding, swimming pools, antennae, and sheds. The only exception is an ordinary repair. An ordinary repair does not require a building permit.

For more information, contact the Building Department at (978) 264-9632.

2. What information do I need to apply for a permit?

Most projects will require three sets of construction plans, a certified plot plan, along with the permit fee.

For more information, contact the Building Department at (978) 264-9632.

3. What are my property set-backs?

Please refer to the zoning bylaw and zoning map to determine your set-backs. You may also find out by contacting the Planning Department at (978) 264-9636.

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Cemetery

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1. How many cemeteries are there in Acton and where are they?

Woodlawn Cemetery was established in 1737 is located at 104 Concord Rd. The Forest Cemetery on Carlisle Rd. was established in 1750 and the Mount Hope Cemetery on Central St. was established 1848.

2. How do I buy a lot?

You will need to contact the Cemetery office and schedule an appointment to view available lots in person.

3. How much does it cost to buy a lot?

Please see our rate schedule. Please note that the rate schedule is periodically reviewed and subject to change. Please call or e-mail our office for an up-to-date rate schedule.

4. I am not an Acton resident. Can I buy a lot in an Acton Cemetery?

Yes, although non-resident pricing is slightly higher than the resident rate.

5. Are there any additional costs after I buy a lot?

There is a fee charged for the following services: Opening and closing a grave, installing a foundation for a monument, installing a marker and planting woody shrubs (must be approved and planted by Cemetery department) on a lot.

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Collector / Treasurer

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1. What is the CPA billed on my account?

On November 5, 2002, voters approved the provisions of the Massachusetts General Laws, known as the Community Preservation Act (CPA). The revenue for this fund includes a 1.5% property tax surcharge. The Town also accepted provisions that allow us to exempt up to $100,000 of your residential assessed value for determination of this surcharge. The calculation is determined by multiplying your adjusted CPA valuation (assessed value less the $100,000 exemption) by the surcharge of 1.5%, and then multiplying this amount by the current tax rate.

Please note: You may be eligible for an additional exemption. The Town also accepted provisions that allow low-income individuals of any age and for seniors with up to moderate income a complete CPA exemption. The income criteria is based on the area-wide median household income as determined annually by the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development. Please call for complete details or for an application for exemption.

For more information on the CPA, please call the Assessors Office at (978) 929- 6621.

2. What is the Sewer Bet and Sewbet Int. billed on my account?

If your property is located in the Middle Fort Pond Sewer District, you have been assessed a betterment. That assessment was payable by two methods: in full or the time payment option. If the time payment option was chosen, you have two components: one is the principal amount of the payment (Sewer Bet) and the other interest portion being 1.55% (Sewbet Int.). These two combined represent the total quarterly installment of your betterment assessment.

For more information on the Betterment, please call the Assessors Office at (978) 929- 6621 .

3. I never received my bill in the mail. Can you forgive the interest and penalties?

No. Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 60 Section 3 states that failure to receive a bill does not relieve the taxpayer/ ratepayer of the responsibility of paying all taxes, charges, interest, and fees. Each year this office is audited by an outside auditing firm. One of the first things examined is whether interest has been forgiven during the year. All payments are effective dated for the day that they are received. We do not honor postmarked dates.

4. Where/how can I make payments?

Payments can be made in person at the counter, M – F from 8 – 5. Also, payments can be made online at www.acton-ma.gov/payonline. Convenience fees are: echeck is $0.50, credit & debit is 3.20% with a min. of $3.00. There is a locked “Message Drop” slot to the right hand side of the rear Town Hall doors for after hours payments.

5. Does your office accept cash payments?

Yes, although we do not encourage the use of cash. Payment by check offers you an excellent record of your payment. If you do make a payment in cash, be sure to get a stamped receipt that indicates the amount of cash paid. We suggest that you keep that receipt in a safe place.

6. I want to begin paying all of my Town of Acton bills online through my bank. Do you have any suggestions?

This method of payment – echeck - creates challenges in the processing of payments. Many people have sewer, real estate, and motor vehicle bills to pay throughout the year. Ownership of multiple properties and motor vehicles further complicates processing a bank printed/echeck as intended by the payee. Clearly, you as well as our staff want payments to post to the correct bill(s) but we can only rely on your data input to assure that this happen. We suggest that if you are going to pay bills online, you should set up your online account at your bank with a general title such as “Town of Acton Taxes & Utility Charges”. Then, as you process a check request, put the specific type/year/bill number(s) or parcel ID data in the memo section of the check. For Example: RE/2015/1234 or RE/2015/F3.A-22-1 or MV/2015/1234 &5678 or for sewer UB/B649/90375. By doing this, the process will be much smoother and greatly minimizes any problems with incorrectly applied payments or the need to return your echeck due to our not being able to find a match for your payment/memo. Keep in mind that there is a lag time between ordering a check online from your bank and that check arriving here for processing. Allow ample time for this lag. We recommend 10 business days.

7. How does your office apply partial payments?

Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 60 Section 3E states that partial payments shall be applied first to any interest due, then to collection charges/fees, then to principal.

8. If I am late paying my bill, what interest rate is charged?

Interest accrues at 14% per year from the due date of each bill. The Commonwealth sets this rate. Our accounting system calculates interest daily using this annual rate. The daily interest amount is called interest per diem.

9. How do I obtain calendar year tax information?

Please remember to keep your copy of your tax bill(s) in a safe place for your income tax records. We do not send statements out unless requested. You can request this at our counter by filling out a form, and if requesting Motor Vehicle information, providing ID for the whomever’s name is on the bill. Other options for requests are via email : collector@acton-ma.gov and by phone 978-929-6622 (if not requesting Motor Vehicle info.) Tax bill information can be viewed online any time at www.acton-ma.gov/payonline.

10. How do I request a Municipal Lien Certificate?

MLCs can be requested via email, regular mail, or in person. We cannot begin to process an MLC until we receive payment to the Town of Acton. Most residential MLCs cost $25.00, but commercial properties can cost up to $150.00. Please inquire by parcel ID and/or property address prior to sending your request. MLC Request Form

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Community Resources

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1. What resources are available for people over 60?

The Senior Center is responsible for outreach for people over 60.

2. What resources are available for veterans?

James MacRae, the Veterans Service Officer, is responsible for providing assistance to Acton's veterans.

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Conservation Commission

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1. How do I reserve a camp site at Camp Acton?

Please call the Recreation Department at 978-929-6640 to reserve a site.
View the Camp Acton Permit Application

2. Does Acton have conservation land trail maps?

You can access the conservation land trail maps at the following website, or you can purchase a trail guide book for $10 at:

• Conservation Office at Town Hall
• Butter Brooks Organic Farms
• Pedal Power Bike & Ski
• EMS

3. Does Acton have a Wetlands Protection Bylaw that exceeds the Wetlands Protection Act?

Yes, view the Wetlands Protection Bylaw

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Council on Aging

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1. What age range does the Council on Aging serve?

The Council On Aging primarily serves residents 60 and over and their families. We also provide resource information to younger residents. For questions, please call (978) 264-9643.

2. Do you charge fees for senior center programs?

Most of our programs are free to Acton seniors. A fee may be asked to cover supplies required for crafts workshops. For questions, please call (978) 264-9643.

3. Does Acton offer any transportation options for seniors?

The Acton Council on Aging offers wheelchair-accessible van transportation Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM - 3:30 PM within Acton, Concord, and Maynard. Please call our van dispatcher between 8:00 AM and 12:00 noon to schedule rides at least one day in advance. A second van service, the Road Runner, is available Tuesday through Thursday. To schedule, call (800) 589-5782.

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Domestic Violence - Police

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1. What is the legal definition of abuse?

Chapter 209A, the Massachusetts Abuse Prevention Act, defines abuse as the occurrence of one or more of the following between family or household members:

• Attempting to cause or causing physical harm
• Placing another in fear of imminent serious physical harm
• Causing another to engage involuntarily in sexual relations by force, threat, or duress

2. What is an Abuse Prevention Order?

An Abuse Prevention Order, called a 209A Order, or a Protective Order, or a Restraining order, is a civil court order intended to provide protection from physical or sexual harm caused by force or threat of harm from a family or household member.

3. Who is a family or household member?

Chapter 209A, the Massachusetts Abuse Prevention Act, defines family or household members as persons who:

• Are or were married to one another
• Are or were residing together in the same household
• Are or were related by blood or marriage
• Having a child in common regardless of whether they have ever married or lived together
• Or are or have been in a substantive dating or engagement relationship, which shall be adjudged by district, probate or Boston municipal courts, by considering the following factors: the length of time of the relationship; the type of relationship; the frequency of interaction between the parties; and if the relationship has been terminated by either person, and the length of time elapsed since the termination of the relationship

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Engineering

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1. How do I get a planning deed for my property?

Please go to the Registry of Deeds. Search by your name, address or book/page information. Additional help is available here.

2. How do I locate my property lines?

Property lines can be located by a Land Surveyor that you hire. The Engineering Department provides land surveying services for public property. More information on how to find a surveyor can be found at the MA Association of Land Surveyors & Civil Engineers website

3. How do I find out if a property is in a flood zone?

Please visit www.acton-ma.gov/flood for information and resources related to properties in the flood zone and flood insurance.

4. How do I find out if there are sidewalks planned for my neighborhood?

Please contact the Sidewalk Committee.

5. Who do I contact if I have questions or problems with a parking meter?

Email the Parking Clerk.

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Fire Department

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1. Where do my smoke and carbon monoxide detectors need to be installed?

The Massachusetts Department of Fire Services has provided a useful guide for Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Requirements.

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Health Department

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1. What question should I ask before having my septic system replaced?

Read the Septic System Replacement Guide

2. What can I do to protect myself from tick bites?

View the Tick Information Sheet

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hotline

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1. What are the Select Board Short Term and Long Term Goals?

Actonma.gov/selectboard

2. How do I apply for a business certificate (a DBA - “Doing Business As”, register my business, etc.) right now?

• Applications for DBA are on the Town website by going to www.actonma.gov, clicking on the Town Clerk web page, go under “Forms & Fees”, and then “License Applications”.  
• After they are printed and filled in, they can be mailed in to the Town Clerk, or put in the drop box outside the Town Hall back doors.  
• The applications must be approved by four other departments before they can be processed.  Due to COVID-19, the approval and processing will take a few weeks.  
• If you have questions or need an application mailed to you, please contact the Clerk’s office at: 978-929-6620 or clerk@actonma.gov. 

3. I received a parking ticket and have a question. Who do I contact? Who do I pay?

Contact the Parking Clerk, Yashira Gonzalez:  978-929-6622 or collector@actonma.gov

4. What is Acton’s Current Tax Rate?

Acton’s 2022 tax rate is $19.45 per $1000, for both residential and commercial.  The assessors set the tax rate and it changes annually in late fall/early winter.  The Finance Department has the tax rate on the Assessor’s page on the Town website:  https://www.acton-ma.gov/134/Assessor.

5. Are there any Property Tax Relief / Exemption Programs?

Acton residents seeking property tax relief or asking about tax exemption programs should speak directly with the Assessor’s Office:  978-929-6621 (assessors@actonma.gov).  The Assessor’s Office reviews tax relief programs with citizens and identifies if there is a program that might be able to help them.

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Nara Park

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1. Do I have to pay to enter the park?

There is no fee to enter the park.

2. Are dogs allowed at the park?

Yes, however dogs are not allowed on the beach and all dogs must be leashed at all times. 

The following are the Town of Acton Bylaws Relating to Animal Control:

E22. No  person  shall  own  or  keep  a  dog,  six  months  or  older,  within  the  Town unless  a license  for  such  dog  is  obtained  from  the  Town  Clerk. The  license period is the time frame between January 1st and the following December 31st, inclusive.  The  fee  for  such  a  license  will  be  determined  by  the  Board  of Selectmen in a public meeting. 

E23. Any person who is the owner or keeper of a dog in the Town of Acton and who  fails  to  license  said  dog  within  the  time  required  by  Chapter  140,  Section 137  and  137A  of  the General  Laws  shall  be  subject  to  a  penalty  of  twenty - five dollars ($25.00) to be collected as provided by law.

E24. No person owning or keeping any animal in the Town of Acton shall permit the  animal  to  go  at  large  to  the  injury  or  nuisance  of  others.  In  addition,  a  dog should  not  go outside  the  boundaries  of  the  property  of  its  owner  or keeper unless  under  the  complete  and  effective  control  of  said  owner  or  keeper  by means of a leash or otherwise. 

E25. Owners or keepers of animals in violation of the foregoing section shall be subject to fines which shall be determined by the Board of Selectmen.

3. Picnic Rentals: Can I just go to NARA and have an outing? How much is it?

NARA Park Picnic Pavilion, Bathhouse Pavilion, and Tented areas are generally rented out during the peak season. Enforcement of permits is handled by the Recreation Department.  We encourage you to have a permit to secure the picnic/field location for your outing.  A group of people is considered more than 6 people. Users who do not have a permit can be asked to leave and must vacate picnic areas if the area has been permitted. Fees vary by type of rental use and are quoted once an application has been submitted for review.  For a Field and Facility Permit (picnic area included) Application and Fee Schedule, please visit www.acton-ma.gov/recreation and click on the Fields and Facilities link.

4. How do I apply to use a Town sports field or playground?

The Recreation Department oversees the following fields and playgrounds:

Concord Road Field
Elm Street
Gardner Field
Goward Playground
Great Hill/Little Great Hill
Jones Field
Joseph Lalli Miracle Field
MacPherson/Hart
NARA Park
Robbins Mill Recreation Area
School Street Fields
TJ O’Grady Memorial Skate Park
Veteran’s Field

Field permits are required for organized use.  Applications can be found at www.acton-ma.gov/recreation on the Field and Facilities link.

5. What is the water quality at NARA pond? Is it tested?

State regulations require that public swimming areas be tested periodically for acceptable levels of E.coli bacteria, to protect the health of the bathing public. NARA pond is a freshwater ecosystem that supports fish, turtles, frogs and other forms of life. Testing is performed by the Acton Board of Health on a weekly basis and a water sample is sent to a lab with results made available in 24 hours. Bacteria testing requires this incubation period.  A result that exceeds 235 ppm will trigger the closing of the beach to swimmers, until follow up testing, which will be performed daily, shows a reduction to acceptable bacteria levels.  It should be noted that beach closings at NARA are not a frequent event. Please contact the Board of Health if you would like additional information at 978-929-6632.

6. What is the walking Perimeter of the interior pathway at NARA?

The pathway around the entire Park is approximately 1 mile. The pathway around just the pond is approximately 1/2 mile.

7. Is the walking path plowed in the winter?

During the winter, the path may or may not be maintained due to other Town snow removal priorities. 

8. Is sledding and /or ice skating permitted at NARA Park?

Sledding: Sledding is at your own risk.  It is recommended that any sledding be done on the hill towards the fields.  We ask that you please refrain from sledding towards the amphitheater or the pond and to not build sled ramps. 

Skating: Skating is at your own risk. The pond at NARA Park is a natural pond and therefore we do not recommend skating on it or any open outdoor pond or lake.  We advise skaters to use indoor or outdoor man-made rinks.

9. How do I register for:

• BEACH MEMBERSHIP
  Beach forms can be found online on the Rec. webpage: www.acton-ma.gov/beach.  Forms must be mailed-in or brought to the Recreation Dept. office.  Forms are also accepted at the beach during normal operations.  If paying via a credit card, it must be completed at the Recreation Department office.  There is an added fee of 3% for credit card transactions.
• SUMMER CAMP
  Registration for Camp can be completed online at www.actonrec.com. Forms can be obtained for mail-in by visiting www.acton-ma.gov/camp or are available at the Recreation Department office.
• CLASS PROGRAM
  Registration is available online at www.actonrec.com.  Registration can also be completed in-person or via mail.
• BUS TRIPS
  Registration is available online at www.actonrec.com.  Registration can also be completed in-person or via mail.
• COMMUNITY GARDEN PLOTS
  There are three locations:  Morrison Farm, North Acton, and Hebert Farm.  Plot rentals are available via first-come, first served registration process at the Cemetery Department office.  Available plots are limited and dependent upon non-renewal from a prior plot user.
• CAMP ACTON PERMIT
  Permits are required for use at Camp Acton located on Pope Road.  Applications can be found on Field and Facility Recreation page.

10. Concert and special event information

Town of Acton Recreation Department events are listed online at www.acton-ma.gov/events.  Flyers for each of these events can also be found on the website.  A listing of the events and/or  program booklet is available at the Recreation Department office.

11. What is your Tax ID number?

046-001-062

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Planning Department

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1. Can I operate and run a business out of my home?

Home occupations are accessory uses which are allowed in all zoning districts on the same lot as the principal use (the residence). A home occupation, other than retail sales, which is conducted entirely within the dwelling or an accessory building by a resident, and employing no persons other than the residents, is allowed. Within the Village Residential District in West Acton, the portion of the dwelling unit or accessory building utilized for a home occupation is limited to 500 square feet of net floor area. The Board of Appeals may authorize by special permit a home occupation which conducts retail sales, or employs non-residents, provided that no more than two such non-resident employees shall be present on the premises at any one time. For more information or to learn in which zoning district a property is located, please contact the Planning Department at (978) 929-6631.

2. Can I build a fence on my property line and how high can it be?

Fences are allowed at the property line up to a maximum height of eight feet without regard to the applicable zoning setback. A building permit is required for any fence over six feet.

Other more or less grade level structures such as driveways, walkways, uncovered steps, ramps, underground storage tanks, septic tanks and systems are also allowed within the minimum required zoning setbacks.

Above grade structures such as the principal dwelling unit, any accessory building or structure (such as garages, studios, workshops, etc.), decks, storage sheds, mechanical equipment, swimming pools, etc. must comply with the minimum required zoning setbacks.

For more information or to learn what the minimum required setback dimensions are of a specific zoning district, please contact the Planning Department at (978) 929-6631.

For more information about applying for a building permit for a fence, please contact the Building Department at (978) 929-6633.

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Police

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1. How do I get a copy of an incident report?

The form for records requests can be found here. Contact the Records Clerk at the Police Department at (978)929-7514.

2. How do I find out if there are any sex offenders living in the Town of Acton?

Visit the Sex Offender Registry Board or contact the Detective Department at the Acton Police Department at (978) 264-9638.

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Recreation Department

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1. How do I rent a picnic area or field?

View Fields and Facilities

2. Do I need to do anything to use the NARA beach?

View NARA Beach Information

3. How do I register my child / children for NARA summer programs?

View NARA Summer Camp Program

4. What is your Tax ID#?

046-001-062

5. Water quality at NARA Pond?

State regulations require that public swimming areas be tested periodically for acceptable levels of E.coli bacteria, to protect the health of the bathing public. NARA pond is a freshwater ecosystem that supports fish, turtles, frogs and other forms of life. Unlike other ponds and lakes open to swimming in the area, NARA is tested weekly, far more frequently than chlorinated public or residential pools, which are tested daily for chlorine levels. Testing is performed by the Health Department on Mondays and a water sample is sent to a lab with results made available in 24 hours. Bacteria testing requires this incubation period. A result that exceeds 235 ppm will trigger the closing of the beach to swimmers, until follow up testing, which will be performed daily, shows a reduction to acceptable bacteria levels. It should be noted that beach closings at NARA are not a frequent event. Please contact the Board of Health if you would like additional information at 978-929-6632.

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Town Clerk

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1. How do I apply for a marriage license?

Marriage License information is found under the Licenses and Permits section: Marriage Licenses

2. How do I register my dog?

Dog licenses can be found in the Licenses and Permits section: Dog Licenses / Registration

3. How do I register to vote?

Voter information can be found in the Election Information section: Voter Registration

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Town Clerk - Business Certificates

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1. What is a business certificate?

Commonly referred to by the name " D.B.A." ("doing business as") , a business certificate creates a public record of the name and address of the owner(s) of a business. Consumers are entitled to this information and it may not otherwise be readily available.

2. Who must file a business certificate?

Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 110, §5 states that any person conducting business in the Commonwealth under any title other than the real name of the person conducting the business, whether individually or as a partnership, shall file (a certificate) in the office of the clerk of every city or town where an office of any such person or partnership may be situated.

Under Chapter 110, §6 a business certificate is not required if a corporation is doing business in its true corporate name, or if a partnership is doing business under any title which includes the true surname of any partner. Certain other associations and partnerships may also be exempt (refer to above citation for details.)

3. How old do I have to be to file a business certificate?

You must be 18 years of age or older in order to file a business certificate.

4. Do other departments have to sign off on my application?

Yes. Zoning/Planning Department, Board of Health, Building Department, and Town Manager’s Office have to sign off on the business application before it can be filed.

5. Why do other departments have to sign off on my application?

Other departments have to sign off on business certificate applications in order to show that they have gone over all laws, requirements, and regulations with the party who intends to open their own business. Depending on the business there may be special requirements, laws, and regulations concerning zoning, signage, health concerns, etc.

6. Will I need other documentation?

Other documentation that may be required at the time of filing for a home based business:

-Business owner must be listed as a resident and owner of the property.
-If you rent your home, you must have a letter from your landlord
-If property is a condo, whether you own or rent, a letter from the condo association must be obtained.

7. How do I file or renew a business certificate?

Forms are available in the Town Clerk’s Office or by calling 978-929-6620. Each person named on the certificate must either sign the form in person at the Town Clerk’s Office, or have their signatures on the form notarized by a Notary Public. Proper identification will be required.

8. What do I do if I discontinue or withdraw from the business, or move to another location?

A new form that states whether the business is being discontinued or if something has changed, must be completed and filed with the Town Clerk if one of the following occurs before the expiration:

Business is discontinued
One or more of the persons named on the certificate is withdrawn or retired from the business or partnership
One or more of the persons named on the certificate dies
Change of residence of one of the named persons on the certificate
Change of location where the business is conducted

The form is available from the Town Clerk.

9. Are business certificates public documents?

Yes. The business certificates are on file with the Town Clerk’s Office until five years after expiration, and may be viewed by anyone making a request.

10. Does the filing of a business certificate protect me from others using the same name?

No. The protection of a trademark (word, name, symbol or device) in Massachusetts is accomplished through the Secretary of State’s Office. Massachusetts Secretary of State's Office Website

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Town Clerk - Marriage Licenses

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1. How do we apply for a marriage license?

You must both apply in person for a marriage license. This requirement is applicable to both residents and non-residents of the Commonwealth. According to Massachusetts law, you must jointly file intentions to marry, and you may do so with the city or town clerk in any community of the state. A marriage license is valid for 60 days from the date intentions are filed and may be used in any Massachusetts city or town. It is not valid outside of the state.

2. What do I need to bring with me in order to apply for a marriage license?

The following knowledge is required from both parties in order to fill out a marriage intention:

1. Social Security Number
2. Mother’s Maiden Name
3. Place of Birth

It is always good to bring your birth certificate, social security card, and/or a form of identification with you for proper spelling and proof of age and identification.

3. What if I do not have a Social Security Number?

If you do not have Social Security Number you must give a valid reason why upon filing the intention of marriage.

4. What happens if I do not get married within the 60 day time period?

If the couple is not married within the 60 day time period than the license becomes invalid and the couple will have to reapply for a license.

5. If my fiancé is active duty military do we both still need to apply in person?

If a person is in the military, both intentions may be filed by either party, providing one is a Massachusetts resident. A letter with original signature from a commanding officer expressing that the person is indeed active military is required. The signature must be original in order for it to be accepted.

6. If my fiancé is incarcerated do both parties need to apply in person?

If a person is incarcerated in a county house of correction or a state correctional facility, intentions may be filed by either party.

7. Is there a waiting period from the date of application to the date the license is issued?

Yes, there is a 3 day waiting period. The license can be picked up on the 3rd day during regular office hours.  (Weekends and holidays do count towards the waiting period.)

8. May we marry before the three days for good reason?

Yes, if you can obtain a court waiver after filing intentions.

9. How do we obtain a waiver?

You should file your intentions first with any city or town clerk. Then an application for a waiver must be filed by both of you at a probate or district court. After a hearing, the court may issue a certificate allowing the marriage license to be issued, and the marriage performed without delay.

10. What is the cost of a marriage license?

Please visit our Forms & Fees page for more details. 

Forms and Fees

11. At what age may a man or a woman marry?

A Massachusetts resident may marry if he or she is 18 years of age or older. A birth certificate may be required to show proof of age.

12. What if one or both of us has been divorced?

You are not required to present a divorce certificate when filing intentions to marry. However, it is extremely important that an individual who has been divorced be certain that his/her divorce is absolute. If you are uncertain as to the absolute date of your divorce, you should contact the court where the divorce was granted. In Massachusetts, a divorce does not become absolute until 90 days after the divorce has been granted, regardless of the grounds for divorce.

13. Is there any special requirement for a widow or widower who is remarrying?

No.

14. Do we need any witnesses present at the ceremony?

Massachusetts statue does not require that witnesses be present at your ceremony. However, if a member of the clergy performs the ceremony, you should ensure that you are in conformity with the appropriate religious tenets.

15. What are the responsibilities of the member of the clergy or justice of the peace?

The member of the clergy or justice of the peace must complete and sign the original license and return it to the clerk of the city or town where the license was issued.

16. Where can I obtain a list of Justices of the Peace?

A list of the Town of Acton Justices of the Peace is available at the Town Clerk’s office upon request.

17. What if I want a friend or family member to officiate my marriage but they are not a member of the clergy or a justice of the peace?

A person who is not a recognized member of the clergy in Massachusetts or a Justice of the Peace (such as a relative or family friend) may obtain one-day special permission from the Governor to perform a marriage. Call the Governor's office at (617) 727-5787 to obtain an application for a one-time special appointment to solemnize a marriage. A $25.00 fee is paid to the Commissions Division of the Office of the Secretary of the Commonwealth and a one day solemnizer certificate is sent to the approved solemnizer.

18. What should be done if an out-of-state member of the clergy is to perform the marriage?

If an out-of-state member of the clergy is to perform the marriage, the clergy person must obtain a Certificate of Authorization from the Massachusetts Secretary of the Commonwealth prior to the ceremony. This certificate, which is issued by the Public Records Division of the Secretary of the Commonwealth, is to be attached to the original license and returned to the clerk of the city or town where the license was issued. For further information, contact: Division of Public Records Secretary of the Commonwealth

Division of Public Records Website

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Town of Acton FAQs

Show All Answers

1. How can I contact Town Hall?

The phone number for Town Hall is (978) 929-6600. You may also visit us at 472 Main St.

2. What transportation services are available for Acton residents?

Acton offers two public transportation options for residents: the Dial-a-Ride Program and Rail Shuttle are operated by MinuteVan. Please visit their website for details. Go to the MinuteVan Site

3. How do I get to Town Hall?

Town Hall is located at 472 Main St. Click on the "Get Directions" link at the link below for exact directions from wherever you are coming from. Map of Town Hall

4. What are Town Hall Hours?

Acton Town Hall Hours are:

Monday        8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Tuesday        8:00 AM - 7:30 PM
Wednesday  8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Thursday      8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Friday           8:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Department Hours